Louis Van Gaal's Vidal Hint No Coincidence with Man United in Need of Midfielder

He's spoken about his unhappiness at the length of the United States tour and Luke Shaw's fitness.

He's been reserved in his praise of some players, enthusiastic about others.

The Dutchman has given the impression of a man in control. From the training pitch to the dugout. And in his conversations with the press.

Asked by Sky Sports about United's pursuit of Angel Di Maria after the draw with Sunderland on Sunday, Van Gaal replied that it was not just the Argentinian winger he liked "but Lionel Messi and Arturo Vidal, also."

Jon Super/Associated Press

The Messi reference felt like a joke. But Vidal was an odd choice if he simply wanted to list the best players in the world.